Date Night? 6 Hot Spots to Get Dinner in Portland Maine

With all the incredible dining options cropping up, it’s no wonder Portland has become one of the most notorious foodie cities on the east coast. Whether you’ve craving seafood or pasta, vegetarian or gluten-free, there is truly something for everyone. Don’t miss the hottest restaurants in town – check out our list of recommendations below as you’re planning your next dinner in Portland, Maine.

DiMillos

Family-owned DiMillos, which has served as Maine’s only floating restaurant, has been a staple since 1954 and is a true Portland classic. When you eat here, you get to enjoy both dinner and a view. Serving arguably the freshest seafood in town in addition to choice cuts of beef and traditional Italian cuisine, you can experience a delectable meal with amazing views of the harbor from every table.

Boda “Very Thai” Kitchen + Bar

Located in the heart of Longfellow Square, the warmth and aromas of Boda are what make it a preferred locale for hungry patrons. Their classic Thai food with a fresh, modern twist and incredible cocktails make this an experience you won’t likely forget. Menu items such as Mama’s Fried Chicken, sticky rice and fried quail eggs will keep you coming back for more!

Drifters Wife

Drifters Wife, located on the up-and-coming Washington Ave. in the East End, has gained national recognition for their dishes. The space originated as Maine & Loire, an upscale wine shop, and the owners have collaborated with the team at Drifters Wife to offer a regularly-changing menu built to pair with a great wine. For a cozy, romantic evening out, you’ll want to make this restaurant a priority.

Central Provisions

Central Provisions is centrally located in the heart of the Old Port. This two-floor restaurant is unique because it offers completely different ambiances depending which floor you’re on; the upstairs is softly lit with an open kitchen at the center, and the downstairs offers a cavern, chic bar feel. You can order the full menu of unique small plates on either level, which is ideal since you won’t want to miss an opportunity to try their rendition of the chop salad, bone marrow toast, or traditional caviar service.

Scales

Located in a post-industrial warehouse on the wharf in the Old Port, Scales is one of the hottest tickets in town. Though it boasts floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the downtown and waterfront, the most unique aspect of this restaurant is a metal chute affixed to the ceiling that drops ice into a large open bin in the center of the room. This ice is for the raw bar, which displays a gorgeous selection of freshly caught seafood, including clams, oysters, octopus and whole fish. Between the delectable food and professional, friendly servers, there’s no better place to spend a date night or evening with friends.

Fore Street

This Old Port hotspot is celebrated for its refined, seasonal American fare, with farm-to-table dinners centered around an open wood-fire grill and spit. The setting at Fore Street is rustic, located in a historic building that originated as a ship’s armory. It can fill up quickly, so although there are a handful of tables reserved for walk-ins, recommendations are advised.

Cumberland Crossing by OceanView

Our campus at Cumberland Crossing by OceanView is just a short distance from beautiful Portland, making it easy to drive into town for dinner and an evening out. To inquire about our active retirement living community, please contact us today.